Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary adventure as we embark on a journey to discover the best Pittsburgh food. From iconic local delicacies to hidden neighborhood gems, this guide will tantalize your palate and leave you craving for more.
Pittsburgh’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with flavors from around the world, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a foodie seeking new culinary frontiers or a local looking to rediscover the city’s hidden gems, this guide will lead you to the best Pittsburgh has to offer.
Top-Rated Restaurants
Pittsburgh’s culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, boasting an array of top-rated restaurants that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From classic American comfort food to innovative global cuisines, the city’s dining establishments offer a gastronomic adventure for every palate.
To help you navigate the culinary landscape, we’ve compiled a list of highly-rated restaurants in Pittsburgh, each renowned for its signature dishes, exceptional service, and memorable ambiance. Customer reviews and ratings from reputable sources have been considered to ensure the credibility of our recommendations.
American Cuisine, Best pittsburgh food
| Restaurant | Signature Dish | Ambiance | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Commoner | Butcher’s Board Charcuterie | Rustic, industrial-chic | 4.5/5 |
| Gaucho Parrilla Argentina | Grilled Skirt Steak | Cozy, authentic Argentinian | 4.8/5 |
| Bar Marco | Housemade Pasta | Intimate, modern Italian | 4.7/5 |
Must-Try Local Delicacies
Pittsburgh’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, where iconic local delicacies tantalize taste buds and hold a special place in the city’s culinary heritage. From the iconic Primanti Brothers sandwich to the delectable haluski, these dishes embody the unique character and culinary traditions of the Steel City.
Primanti Brothers Sandwich
The Primanti Brothers sandwich is an iconic Pittsburgh delicacy that has gained national recognition. This colossal sandwich is a symphony of flavors, featuring thinly sliced meat (usually corned beef, roast beef, or ham), melted cheese, coleslaw, and french fries, all piled high on Italian bread.
The unique combination of textures and flavors creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
The sandwich was born in the 1930s at the original Primanti Brothers restaurant in the Strip District. It was initially created as a quick and affordable meal for steelworkers, and its popularity quickly spread throughout the city and beyond. Today, Primanti Brothers has several locations in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, and the sandwich remains a beloved local favorite.
Neighborhood Food Gems
Pittsburgh’s culinary scene extends beyond its celebrated restaurants. Nestled within its vibrant neighborhoods are hidden gems, beloved by locals and waiting to be discovered. These establishments offer a glimpse into the city’s diverse culinary heritage, showcasing flavors that reflect the neighborhood’s unique character.
Explore these culinary treasures, each with its distinct atmosphere, menu highlights, and stories that embody the spirit of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods.
Strip District
- The Strip District Meats: A renowned butcher shop that also serves mouthwatering sandwiches and house-made sausages, a testament to the neighborhood’s meatpacking history.
- Pamela’s Diner: A beloved greasy spoon serving classic American comfort food, frequented by locals and visitors alike.
- Enrico Biscotti Co.: A family-owned bakery specializing in handcrafted biscotti, a staple of the neighborhood’s Italian heritage.
Lawrenceville
- Industry Public House: A gastropub with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, featuring a creative menu that changes regularly.
- Casbah: A Mediterranean restaurant known for its flavorful tagines, couscous, and live music performances.
- Onion Maiden: A vegetarian and vegan restaurant offering a diverse menu of globally inspired dishes.
South Side
- Piper’s Pub: A cozy Irish pub serving traditional Irish fare, a popular spot for locals to gather.
- El Burro: A Mexican restaurant with a loyal following, known for its authentic tacos and flavorful margaritas.
- Soba: A modern Japanese restaurant specializing in soba noodles, offering a refined dining experience.
Pittsburgh Food Festivals and Events
Pittsburgh is a foodie’s paradise, and there’s always something delicious happening. From food festivals to culinary events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.Here’s a list of upcoming food festivals and events in Pittsburgh:
Pittsburgh Food & Wine Festival
The Pittsburgh Food & Wine Festival is one of the largest food festivals in the country, and it features over 100 restaurants, wineries, and breweries. The festival is held annually in September at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
The Big Butler Fair
The Big Butler Fair is a 10-day agricultural fair that features food, rides, games, and live entertainment. The fair is held annually in August at the Butler County Fairgrounds.
The Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival
The Pittsburgh Pierogi Festival is a celebration of Pittsburgh’s favorite food, the pierogi. The festival features over 50 vendors selling pierogies of all kinds, as well as live music and entertainment. The festival is held annually in August at the South Side Works.
The Pittsburgh Taco Festival
The Pittsburgh Taco Festival is a celebration of tacos, with over 20 vendors serving up tacos from all over the world. The festival also features live music and entertainment. The festival is held annually in September at the Carrie Furnaces National Historic Landmark.
The Pittsburgh Craft Beer Festival
The Pittsburgh Craft Beer Festival is a celebration of craft beer, with over 100 breweries pouring their latest and greatest beers. The festival also features live music and entertainment. The festival is held annually in October at the David L.
Lawrence Convention Center.
Craft Beer and Food Pairings: Best Pittsburgh Food
Pittsburgh is renowned for its thriving craft beer scene, where local breweries collaborate with restaurants to elevate the dining experience. The art of beer and food pairing enhances flavors, creating a symphony of taste sensations.
Pairing beer with food involves considering the beer’s characteristics, such as its body, flavor profile, and bitterness, and matching them with dishes that complement or contrast these qualities. Here are some examples:
Light and Crisp Beers
- Pair with light and refreshing dishes, such as salads, seafood, or grilled chicken.
- Examples: Pilsners, lagers, or wheat beers.
Hoppy Beers
- Complement dishes with bold flavors, such as spicy dishes, burgers, or roasted meats.
- Examples: IPAs, pale ales, or double IPAs.
Malty Beers
- Pair with sweet or savory dishes, such as desserts, barbecue, or hearty stews.
- Examples: Stouts, porters, or amber ales.
Sour Beers
- Balance dishes with rich or fatty flavors, such as cheese platters, charcuterie boards, or fatty meats.
- Examples: Gose, Berliner Weisse, or lambic beers.
By understanding the nuances of beer and food pairing, diners can create a harmonious dining experience that enhances both the flavors of the food and the beer.
Popular Questions
What is the most popular food in Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is known for its iconic dishes like the Primanti Brothers sandwich, pierogies, and haluski.
Where can I find the best pizza in Pittsburgh?
For some of the best pizza in the city, check out Mineo’s Pizza House, Pizzaiolo Primo, and Enrico Biscotti Co.
What are some hidden gem restaurants in Pittsburgh?
For a taste of authentic Ethiopian cuisine, try Desta Ethiopian Cuisine. For a unique dining experience, visit The Whitfield, a restaurant located in a former church.
